Hoisting device and system and method for using the same

ABSTRACT

A hoisting device and, more particularly, an intelligent hoist ring that is capable of monitoring, recording and/or communicating the use of the hoist ring including monitoring, recording and/or communicating the loads on the hoist ring that can be used, inter alia, to determine condition of the hoist ring and whether it can remain in active service and monitoring tightening loads independently of applied loads.

This application is a continuation of pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/486,790 filed on Sep. 15, 2014 (Our Ref. JER-37120.02),which claims priority in provisional patent application Ser. No.61/878,075 that was filed on Sep. 16, 2013 and provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 62/025,377 that was filed on Jul. 16, 2014, whichare both incorporated by reference herein.

The invention of this application relates to hoisting device and, moreparticularly, to an intelligent hoist ring that is capable ofmonitoring, recording and/or communicating the use of the hoist ring.Yet more particularly, to monitoring, recording and/or communicating theloads applied to the hoist ring that can be used, inter alia, todetermine condition of the hoist ring and whether it can remain inactive service.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are a wide range of lifting and/or hoisting devices used in theindustry which include, but are not limited, to center-pull style hoistrings. These devices are used to lift a variety of heavy loads orobjects, such as die sets and molds. However, while the invention hasbeen found to work particularly well with these center-pull hoist ringswherein it is being described below in connection with center-pull hoistrings, the invention has broader applications and may be used for avariety of applications where it is necessary to monitor, record andcommunicate applied loads over the service life of the device. Theseapplications can include the use of a hoist ring used to lift structuressuch as containers, aircrafts, vehicles, boats, equipment, dies,tooling, molds, rigging, windmills, etc.

Through the years, a large number of hoisting devices have beendeveloped which allow for a ring to be connected to the hook of a hoistwherein the ring pivots and/or swivels for the purpose of automaticallyadjusting the disposition of the ring with respect to the force beingapplied to the hoist during the lifting procedure. Such devices arefound in patents incorporated by reference herein which will bediscussed more below.

The center-pull hoist devices have a post assembly that allows360-degree rotation of a support or body member. The rotating supportmember carries the load lifting ring, which can be in many forms includethe form of a U-shaped clevis or bail. The clevis can pivot about acenter clevis axis of the rotating support member and has a pivot arc ofabout 180 degree (bail angle).

Like the center-pull style, the side-pull hoist ring includes a rotatingsupport member mounted onto the load by a post assembly. In a side-pullhoist ring, the support member can be generally U-shaped to define anouter bite portion in which a circular load ring is pivotally mounted.The circular load ring is offset from the axis of the center postassembly.

These prior patents include the device shown in Schron Jr. et al U.S.Pat. No. 5,634,734 that discloses a center-pull style hoist device andis incorporated by reference for showing the same. Also incorporated byreference are the Ma U.S. Pat. No. 6,749,237, the Tsui U.S. Pat. Nos.5,405,210 and 5,848,815, the Sawyer et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,801, andthe Chandler U.S. Pat. No. 5,352,056 that all show different styles ofcenter-pull hoist ring.

Fuller et al U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,012; Fuller et al U.S. Pat. No.6,443,514; and Fuller et al U.S. Pat. No. 6,068,310 all discloseside-pull hoisting devices and are incorporated by reference for showingthe same.

All of these device disclose effective hoisting devices that have beenused effectively in the industry for many years and which are providedas background for the invention of this application.

In addition to the above-described hoisting devices, also known in thepatent art is a patent to Mueller U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,286,130, and3,492,033 which disclose a clevis hoist ring assembly. The Muellerpatents are incorporated by reference for showing yet another style ofhoist ring that could utilize with the invention of this application

However, while hoist rings are designed to be very robust, every hoistring has a predetermined load limit based on the size and design of thering. And, if a predetermined load limit is exceeded, the ring can bedamaged. Thus, when a hoist ring is utilized to lift or support acritical load, it is important to know whether the ring has been damagedby its use on prior loads. Therefore, when dealing with critical loads,hoist rings are often pulled out of service to test the rings to ensurethat there has been no damage to the ring during prior use. As can beappreciated, this can be costly and can remove the ring from service foran extended amount of time over its service life. This is especiallytrue if there is no data on the prior use. Therefore, the serviceintervals of existing hoist rings must be set based on the worst casescenarios instead of the actual use of the ring. However, if the servicelife of the ring could be monitored, both the service life of the ringcould be extended and the service intervals could be determined based onthe actual use of each ring individually thereby minimizing the amountof time the ring is out of service throughout its service life.Therefore, there is a need for a hoist ring that can monitor its own useand store data associated with this use such that service intervals canbe based on actual use of each hoist ring.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The invention of this application relates to a hoist ring and, moreparticularly, an intelligent hoist ring that can measure, record and/orcommunicate the use of the hoist ring to condition of the ring that canbe used to help determine the optimal service intervals and/or life forthe ring. More particularly, the invention of this application relatesto a system of comprehensive hoist ring hardware, software and/orexternal devices for purposes of reading forces applied to the ring,recording these applied forces, calculating the effect of the appliedforces on the structures of the ring and/or communicating these forcesand/or data wherein informed decision can be made concerning serviceintervals, service life, design improvements, hoist ring selection basedon the reported force for the hoist ring to meet mechanical design andfunctional requirements.

More particularly, in accordance with certain aspect of the presentinvention provided is a hoisting device that includes a hoist body thatis selectively attachable to an object to be lifted and/or secured and ahoist ring attached to the body. The hoisting device further includesone or more sensors to measure the loads that are applied to the hoistring.

According to other aspects of the present invention, the hoisting devicecan further include a data storage device to record data on the appliedloads. This can include the measuring and recording of any data that isdeemed to be important to the service life of the device and/or the useof the device. This can include, but is not limited to, the loadsapplied to the ring, the duration of the load, the nature of the load,the direction of the load, and/or any impact loads.

According to yet further aspects of the present invention, the hoistingdevice can further include an angle measurement feature that can monitorand record the load angle of the applied load and/or bail angle of thering when the load is applied. The greater the load angle and/or bailangle, the greater the overall applied load. As is known in this field,the load applied to the ring produces stresses in the ring and thesestresses can change based on load angle. Typically, the stresses in thering increase as the bail angle of the applied load increases. Yetfurther, there are limits on the bail angle that are to be applied tothe hoist ring. Therefore, the intelligent ring of this application canbe configured to measure the bail angle of the load in combination withthe amount of load, record this data and even communicate this data. Ifa load is applied that is outside the limits of the load and/or bailangle, this can be recorded. This can include, but is not limited tomultiple sensors positioned circumferentially around the hoist ring boltand/or sensors to determine the bail angle of the ring of the hoistring.

According to even yet further aspects of the present invention, thehoisting device can further include external notification features. Thiscan include, but is not limited to, an alert feature that the hoist ringbolt is properly tightened to the load with a desired bolt holding forceor load, a warning feature that the applied load is too great, a warningfeature that a shock load has been encountered, a warning feature thatthe bail or load angle is outside a predetermined range, a warningfeature that a service interval has been reached, a warning feature thatany predetermined load limits have been surpassed and/or a warningfeature that any noteworthy event has occurred.

According to other aspects of the present invention, the hoisting devicecan further include software to analyze the data from the sensors and/orto help determine if a predetermined limit has been surpassed and/or anevent has occurred.

Yet further aspects of the invention include systems to measure, storeand communicate resultant data within the hoist ring itself and/or toancillary software packages and hardware devices.

Yet even further, it is an object of the invention to achieve theintelligent hoist ring design without significant changes to themechanical structure of existing hoist ring designs. This can include asensor device that can replace the existing washer in an existing hoistring.

According to further aspects and objects of the invention, the boltholding load and the lifting loads can be calculated based on actualload readings and not based on calculations from material deflectionand/or elongation.

According to yet further aspects and objects of the invention, theholding loads and the lifting loads are calculated based on one or morecompression sensors.

According to another set of aspects and objects of the invention, twosets of compression sensors are provided such that the lifting force orload can be read, recorded and communicated separately from the holdingforce or load of the main bolt.

According to a further set of aspects and objects of the invention,provided is an internal power source to power the internal electronicsincluding the compression sensor(s) and/or strain gauges as neededand/or to provide a power supply that meets mechanical designrequirements and, in certain embodiments, a power source that can bereplenished.

According to another set of embodiments, the system can communicatereadings from gage(s) and/or sensors to a decision making device.

According to even yet other sets of embodiments, the hoist ring devicecan include a system to measure and record load readings (audit trail);a system measure and record a shock readings (sharp momentary load); asystem measure and record torque on the bolt; a system measure andrecord lift rand; a system measure and record equality of the load; asystem measure and record bail angle (applied load effect); evaluate aload readings; interpret reading to illuminate an appropriate statuslight (such as a micro sized light source (red light—alert; greenlight—normal operation; yellow light—caution and/or maintenance needed);communicate with a calibration station and/or hand-held device; providetraceable location/identification signatures (such as a hard wiredcable, RFID, GPS information, WI-FI and ZiGbee); provide a hoist ringdesign and system design that allows for field retro-fit to existingend-users hardware; provide a system that is scalable to allow for theincorporation of additional sensory hardware and/or software; provide asystem that can interface and/or establish communications to and from amobile and fixed electronic units, provide a system that includes aninterface for reading audit trail and provides for output reporting;provide a system that includes an interface for calibration of bolt forProof Test Process; provide a system that includes an interface for theID/Locating requirements; provide a system that includes an interface toreset of fault and/or warning light; provide a system that includes aninterface for evaluating the cycles of the hoisting device (such as howmany lifts the device has been used on); provide a system that includesa database structure with appropriate query capability for designatedend users to monitor the construction, re-certification, and/ordisposition of damaged unit; provide a system that allows for thecreation of customized reports; and/or provide a system that includesinternal and/or secondary software and systems that can be used byauthorized service personnel and/or the end users, and/or in housesafety coordinator to monitor the usage and function of the hoist ring.

According to yet further aspect of the invention of this application,the hoisting device is a Center-Pull hoist ring of varying sizes. Inparticular, the hoist ring and corresponding sensing devices can beconfigured to work with any bolt size including, but not limited to, anyEnglish or Metric sized bolt; any pitch, diameter, thread size and/orstyle bolt. Yet even further, it is contemplated that the invention ofthis application can work with hoist rings that use fasteners other thanthreaded bolt fasteners. Yet even further, the disk that is utilized toobtain, manage, record and/or analyze the data can be configured to workwith more than one size, style and/or configuration of hoist ring.

According to even yet further aspects of the invention, provided is ahoist ring that is a self contained electro-mechanical hoist ring devicethat can dynamically, in real-time, provide a visual queue to a end-userthat a lift is within proof tested limits. In this respect, the deviceof this application can include a real time warning light that can beused as a visual indicator to stop or to use a warning sound and/orcommunicated warning to an external device or system. The system can beconfigured to allow the warning light (or system) to signal when a lifthas exceeded the proof limit through continuous lift and/or shock. Thus,the warning light (or system) can be used to warn the end-user andindicate that the lifting device is to be serviced/evaluated. Duringservicing/evaluation, if it is determined that the hoist device iswithin design parameters, then the warning light(s) can be reset, andthe device returned to service.

According to another set of aspects of the invention, provided is ahoist ring that is a self contained electro-mechanical hoist ring devicethat can dynamically, in real-time, provide a visual queue to a end-userthat a lift is within proof tested limits. In this respect, the deviceof this application also can include one or more strain gauges that canbe configured to detect and/or determine tightening loads to ensure thatthe hoist ring bolt is properly tightened to the load with a desiredbolt holding force or load, applied loads to warn if the applied load istoo great, shock loads to warn if the ring has been subjected to a largeshock load, bail angle or load angle to make sure it is not outside apredetermined range, and/or other loads.

Also incorporated by reference herein are a Wikipedia article on StrainGauges dated Apr. 21, 2014 that discloses background information onthese types gauges, a document titled MEASURING STRAIN WITH STRAINGAUGES from National Instruments dated Apr. 9, 2014 and a documenttitled STRAIN GAUGES from allaboutcircuits.com dated Apr. 21, 2014. Allof these documents provide background information on strain gauges andthese documents are incorporated by reference into this application forshowing the same.

These and other objects, aspects, features, developments and advantagesof the invention of this application will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon a reading of the Detailed Description ofEmbodiments set forth below taken together with the drawings which willbe described in the next section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement ofparts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail andillustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof andwherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a prior art center-pull hoist ring showingcertain aspects of a center-pull hoist ring for practicing the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a side, partially cross-section view of the example prior artcenter-pull hoist ring shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view somewhat cut away of the example prior artcenter-pull hoist ring shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a ring portion for the example prior artcenter-pull hoist ring shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view take on lines 5-5 of FIG. 2, showingcertain operating characteristics of the example prior art center-pullhoist ring shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a set of embodiments of anintelligent center-pull hoist ring showing certain aspects of thepresent invention of this application;

FIG. 7 is a front side view of the center-pull hoist ring shown in FIG.6;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the center-pull hoist ring shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 9-9 in FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along line 11-11 in FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a side view of the certain components of the center-pullhoist ring shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the components shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 in FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the another set of components of thecenter-pull hoist ring shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view taken along line 16-16 in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a bottom side perspective view of the strain collar shown inFIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a top side perspective view of the strain collar shown inFIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a top view of the strain collar shown in FIG. 17 showingalternative embodiments;

FIG. 20 is a sectional view taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a flow diagram and flow chart for a central monitoringarrangement;

FIG. 22 is a flow diagram and flow chart for a configuration and servicestation;

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram and flow chart for a mobile deviceapplication; and,

FIG. 24 is a flow diagram and flow chart for a real-time monitoringsystem.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purposeof illustrating preferred and alternative embodiments of the inventiononly and not for the purpose of limiting same, FIGS. 1-5 show an examplecenter-pull hoist ring or hoist device 10 for connection to a loadmember 12 shown in FIG. 2. The description below relating to hoistdevice 10 is only intended to provide general background for an examplecenter-pull hoist ring that the invention of this application can beused in connection with wherein this description is not to be used tolimit the invention of this application. The background of thisapplication includes yet other rings that can be used with the inventionof this application. Further, other figures of this application showanother example center-pull hoist ring that can utilize the invention ofthis application.

The member 12 has a threaded bore 14 and an upper generally flat surface16 for illustrative purposes. A hoist device supporting stud 20 includesan upper cylindrical head 22 with a cylindrical body portion 24 belowhead 22 and terminating in a lower threaded shank 26. The diameters ofthe head, cylindrical body portion and threaded shank are progressivelydecreased as illustrated in FIG. 2. Stud 20 is the load bearing memberwhich must absorb both shear and tension in operation of hoist device10. The stud is illustrated with a top surface 30 having a lower bearingsurface 32 which is torqued against surface 16 when stud 20 is in itsload supporting position. The undersurface of head 22 defines adownwardly facing load supporting shoulder 34 which is an annularshoulder or surface below the cylindrical surface 36 of head 22. Stud 20is illustrated as having a recessed portion 38 between shank 26 and bodyportion 24 so that the threads can be properly machined into shank 26. Asimilar recess 39 divides head 22 from body portion 24.

To provide the swivel mechanism, a cylindrical base portion 40 isrotatably mounted on stud 20 after the stud has been passed through acentral passage 42 of member 40. This central passage includes an upperrecess 44 for capturing head 22 and has an upper shoulder 46 engagingshoulder 34 of head 22. This engagement is the force transmittingstructure so that as member 40 is pulled upwardly shoulder 46 engageslower shoulder 34 of head 22 so the stud provides the lifting force formember 12. The base member also includes a plurality of counter sinkbolt holes 50 for bolts 52. In the illustrated hoist ring, fixed boltsare employed; however, as shown in other configurations of the ring, twoor four bolts could be employed for assembling the hoist device 10.

A continuous hoist ring 60 having an upper bight portion 62 and astraight cylindrical connecting portion 64 is provided by an appropriateprocess. In one version of the disclosed ring, hoist ring 60 is acontinuous forged steel component. It could be a cast iron component orit could be formed into an appropriate shape from a single piece ofsteel and welded together. In accordance with the shown hoist ring, thering can be a continuous ring.

In accordance with other aspects of the center-pull hoist ring, acylindrical port member 70 matching generally the shape of base member40 is provided with a slot 72 for capturing cylindrical portion 64 ofring 60 between base member and support member 70. A plurality ofthreaded bores 74 co-act with bolt holes 50 to allow bolts 52 to clampthe cylindrical body portions of members 40, 70 together in a mannerwhich captures hoist ring 60 between the two members. These membersrotate in unison about stud 20 while hoist ring 60 can pivot throughapproximately 180°.

Hoist device 10 has the advantages of the continuous ring type hoistingdevice as well as the swiveling action heretofore obtainable only in aclevis type of hoist device. The center-pull hoist ring does not clamp abushing between stud 20 and surface 16. Of course, such a bushing couldbe employed in some arrangement which would still obtain the advantages.

In practice, a socket is provided in the top 30 of head 22 for thepurpose of using an Allen wrench for assembling stud 20 into threadedbore 14 on load member 12.

In accordance with other aspects of the shown center-pull hoist ring,the socket can be replaced by the diametrically extending passage shownas a bore 80 through head 22. To assemble stud 20 into bore 14, bolts 52assemble members 40, 70 for capturing stud 20 in recess 44 andcylindrical connecting portion 64 in slot 72.

The center-pull hoist ring as illustrated includes an arrangement forpivoting ring 60 as well as swiveling ring 60 by the swiveling action ofthe members 40, 70 after they have captured the stud and the connectingportion 64 of lifting ring 60.

While applicant has gone into particular detail to describe and define aparticular style of center-pull hoist ring, this has been done only toprovide background on the general characteristics of center-pull hoistrings and is not intended to limit the invention to this particularhoist ring. In this respect, the invention of this application that willbe discussed more below is configured to work in connection with a widerange of hoist rings, in particular, a wide range of center-pull hoistrings wherein the description above and the corresponding figures, areintended to be illustrative and not limiting. Yet further, the inventionof this application can be configured to work with a wide range ofexisting hoist rings without requiring significant design changes to thegeneral structure of hoist ring and one of which will be discussed morebelow.

With reference to FIGS. 6-20, shown preferred sets of embodiments of theinvention of this application. While other embodiments shown in theprovisional applications are not shown in this application, they arecontemplated wherein applicant reserves the right to pursue one or moreof these alternative embodiments in a separate application wherein thisspecification is intended to streamline prosecution, but not limit theinvention.

In greater detail, shown in these figures is a representativecenter-pull hoist ring 100 that includes certain embodiments of theinvention of this application. In these embodiments, ring 100 includesone or more strain sensor or gauges to detect loads; some of whichindependently of others. In this respect, ring 100 includes a straincollar 110 configured to detect loads applied to the hoist ring. Theseloads include, but are not limited to, tightening loads to ensure thatthe hoist ring bolt is properly tightened to the load with a desiredbolt holding force or load, applied loads to warn if the applied load istoo great, shock loads to warn if the ring has been subjected to a largeshock load, bail angle or load angle to make sure the load angle is notoutside a predetermined range, and/or other loads.

Ring 100 includes a hoist ring body 120, strain collar 110, and a basewasher 122 with a washer opening 124. Ring 100 can further include anelectronics cap 126 that can cover the electronics that will bediscussed in greater detail below. In addition, cap 126 can include oneor more display functions, including any of the display functionsdiscussed below, that can alert the user of the loads being applied tothe ring. Cap 126 can substantially cover an exposed portion of straincollar 110 as is shown, but this is not required. Ring 100 furtherincludes a bail or U-bar 128. However, while one particular type ofU-bar is shown in the drawings, any ring like structure known in the artcould be utilized with the invention of this application wherein theterm U-bar 128 is intended to be broadly interpreted to include all ringor hook like structures use for hoisting devices. The componentsdiscussed that relate to commonly used ring components will not bedisclosed in detail in the interest of brevity. U-bar can be joined toring body by any method known in the art including, but not limited to,U-bar pins 127 and held in place by locking pins 129.

Strain collar 110 includes a stem portion 130 and a flange portion 132that will be discussed in greater detail below. While not required,flange portion can be an upper portion in reference to a typical loadbeing positioned below ring 100. For this application, and withreference to the orientation of the drawings, the flange and othercomponents of ring 100 are described as upper and lower in reference tothe drawings. But, the invention is not to be limited in view of thisdescription. Stem portion 130 has an outer stem surface 134 and in oneembodiment this outer surface is cylindrical. Stem portion furtherincludes an inner bolt opening 136 defined by an inner stem surface 138.Inner stem surface 138 also can be cylindrical. These inner and outerstem surfaces define a stem wall 140 that extends about a stem axis 142and which has a thickness. Stem portion 130 and stem wall 140 have abottom extent 144 and an opposite top extent 145. Bottom extent 144 isopposite of flange portion 132 and faces washer 122. Bottom extentengages washer 122 when ring 100 is tightened onto the object to belifted. Flange portion 132 generally extends from top extent 145.

Flange 132 includes a lower flange surface 150 and an upper flangesurface 152. It is preferred that strain collar 110 includes a radius154 between lower flange surface 150 and outer stem surface 134. In apreferred set of embodiments, radius 154 is between 0.050 inches and0.200 inches wherein preferably radius 154 is between about 0.070 and0.110 inches. This radius can be used to help control stresses and/orthe deflection from the pads. Washer 122 has a top washer surface 156and a bottom washer surface 158. Bottom extent 144 engages top washersurface 156.

Ring body 120 includes a ring body opening 160 that extends from a bodytop extent 162 to a body bottom extent 164 and is sized to fit overouter surface 134 of stem 130. As a result, body 120 extends about stemsurface 134 and is between lower flange surface 150 of flange portion132 and top washer surface 156 of base washer 122. Stem 130 has a stemlength 170 that allows body 120 to rotate about a ring axis 172 evenwhen the ring is tightly connected to an associated object (not shown).This length also directs bolt tightening forces of the device to thestem, which will be discussed more below. In one set of embodiments,ring axis 172 is coaxial with stem axis 142. Again, while it ispreferred that flange portion 132 is an upper flange portion (whereinupper and lower in this application merely refers to the position in thedrawings), strain collar 110 of this application could be invertedwithout detracting from the invention of this application and flangeportion 132 could be a lower flange portion.

Ring 100 further includes a bolt 190 that is configured to secure thering to the associated object to be lifted (not shown). Bolt 190 can beany fastening device that is used in the art. The bolt shown includes abolt head 192 and a threaded shaft 194 wherein bolt head 192 can includea tool receiving feature 196. Bolt 190 can further include a snap ringgroove 200 that can work in connection with a snap ring 202 to securethe bolt and ring 100 in an assembled condition while allowing relativerotation. According to another set of embodiments, fastener 202 could bea Tinnerman one-way self locking nut and/or grooveless retainer ring.These devices can be utilized to eliminate snap ring groove 200. Washer122 can further include a snap ring recess 210 extending into bottomwasher surface 158 that allows the snap ring to be counter sunk andpositioned away from the applied loads.

Bolt 190 is configured such that threaded shaft 194 extends through bothinner bolt opening 136 and washer opening 124, but it is spaced frombody 120 to allow relative rotation of the body 120 and bail or U-bar128.

With special reference to FIGS. 14, 17 and 18-20, the ring shown inthese embodiments measures loads by way of measuring strain in differentlocations within strain collar 110. In this respect, strain collar 110includes one or more deformation zones configured to create controlledelastic deformation that can be measured to determine different appliedloads. In the embodiment shown, ring 100 has a first deformation zone220 in flange portion 132 and a second deformation zone 222 in stemportion 130. These zones can work independently and/or in combination tocalculate applied loads on ring 100. Further, each of these deformationzones can include one or more planned deformation areas, which will bediscussed more below. As can be appreciated, multiple planneddeformation areas can be used to improve accuracy by comparing and/oraveraging measured values, but also can be used to vector a direction ofapplied loads.

With reference to first deformation zone 220, flange portion 132 can bedivided into multiple deformation areas. As is shown in this example,there can be three deformation areas 230-232. However, while threedeformation areas are shown, the invention could have more or lessdeformation areas without detracting from the invention. Furthermore,while three areas are shown since three is considered a minimum numberfor vectoring; the invention of this application can have more or lessareas and/or zones depending on the desired load to be monitored, theaccuracy needed for vectoring, averaging needs and/or costs.

Deformation areas 230-232 are controlled elastic deformation areas thatare produced by three deformation pads 240-242 on lower flange surface150 of flange portion 132. As can be appreciated, if there are adifferent number of deformation areas, there could be a different numberof deformation pads wherein this description is to be considered anexample only. In greater detail, bolt head 192 (or a washer below head192), engages upper flange surface 152 in zone 236 and deformation pads240-242 engage body top extent 162 of body 120 when there is an appliedload on ring 100. Thus, this applied load is directed directly intoflange portion 132 at three designated points and these are all knownpoints. In that pads 240-242 are radially spaced from zone 236, elasticdeformation is caused in deformation areas 230-232 and flange portion132 further includes three flange strain gauges 260-262 that areconfigured to measure the elastic deformation in areas 230-232. Flangestrain gauges 260-262 can be located on upper flange surface 152, butthis is not required. Further, in one set of embodiments, lower flangesurface 150 includes a circumferential edge 268 and pads 240-242 arecircumferentially spaced about axis 172 at or near edge 268. It ispreferred that pads 240-242 are equally spaced about axis 172 at or nearedge 268. As can be appreciated, the strain gauges measure thedeformation of areas 230-232 and this data can be used to determine theload that is applied to ring 100. Further, by having multiple straingauges, the direction of the load can be determined. This informationcan be used to determine if the ring is within its designed limits bydifferent measured loads from each gauge. As will be discussed morebelow, the number of strain gauges per deformation area can also beincreased and the location of these gauges can be altered withoutdetracting from the invention of this application.

According to yet another set of embodiments, stem portion 130 caninclude an outer stem surface 134 that is formed at a stem angle 270relative to axis 142 wherein outer stem surface 134 can include aconical surface portion. While preferably, all, or substantially all, ofouter stem surface 134 is formed at the stem angle, this is notrequired. A conical surface configuration can work to enhance the actionof deformation of areas 230-232 by allowing a limited amount of tilt orrock in the stem to help determine the bail angle of the U-bolt. Stemangle 270 is configured such that stem surface 134 extends upwardly andinwardly wherein bottom extent 144 has a larger diameter or size thantop extent 145. Stem angle 270 can be between 0 degrees and 10 degrees.In a preferred embodiment, stem angle is between 0 degrees and 5degrees. More preferably, stem angle 270 is between 1 degree and 3degrees.

Second deformation zone 222 is located in stem portion 130 wherein stemportion 130 includes load sensor arrangements 280 and 282. Load sensorarrangements include strain openings 284 and 286 that will deform when aload is applied. In the embodiment shown, second zone includes two ovalor elliptical holes or strain openings 284 and 286 producing two loadsensor arrangements; however, more than two load sensor arrangementscould be used. In one set of preferred embodiments, a single load sensorarrangement 280 is utilized. Again, these openings are designed forcontrolled elastic deformation and include stem strain gauges 290 and292, respectively, positioned therein to measure the amount ofdeformation. While this zone is shown with only a single strain gaugeper opening, each opening could include multiple strain gauges withoutdetracting from the invention of this application. In one set ofembodiments (not shown), each opening includes two strain gauges. Seconddeformation zone 222, is configured to determine the tightening load ofthe ring and not the applied load on ring 100 or the load angle of theapplied load. This is the reason for less than three strain openingssince tightening load magnitude is only needed. Having two load sensorarrangements both increases accuracy of the measurement and generallybalances the load structure in the stem. In greater detail, the secondzone is configured to calculate the tightening force that is applied tobolt 190 as it is threaded onto the object to be lifted. In that body120 has a height or thickness 296 that is less than the stem length 170,stem 130 engages washer 122 when the bolt is tightened and thetightening load passes through stem 130. As a result, body 120 isgenerally isolated from the tightening load. This also allows body 120to freely rotate about axis 172 even when ring 100 is fully tightenedonto the load to be supported. Continued tightening of bolt 190 deformsstrain openings 284 and 286 that include strain gauges 290 and 292. Theamount of deformation of openings 284 and 286 can then be used tocalculate the tightening load applied to bolt 190. This data can be usedto alert an end user that bolt 190 is properly tightened onto the objectto be lifted. In addition, since body height 296 is less than the stemlength 170, tightening bolt 190 does not significantly affect firstdeformation zone 220 since pads 240-242 are maintained in a generallyspaced relationship with body 120 during bolt tightening. However, ithas been found that preferably openings (284 and/or 286) are inalignment with one of the three deformation pads to balance forces onthe ring.

In order to electrically connect the electronics of ring 100, straincollar 110 can include wire openings or holes 310 and 312 that extendfrom upper flange surface 152 to strain openings 284 and 286,respectively. Openings 310 and 312 can allow strain gauges 290 and 292to be in direct-electronic communication with electronics 320 positionedon upper flange surface 152. Electronics 320 can be any electronicsdiscussed in this application including, but not limited to, thoseneeded to operate the strain gauges, store data from the strain gauges,communicate data and provide a power supply. Electronics cap 126 cancover electronics 320 to create a sealed electronics cavity 322. Coveror cap 126 can include visual features to alert the user of the rings ofthis application of proper and/or improper uses of the hoist ring, whichis discussed more below. Further, cover 126 can include connectionport(s) to transfer data and charging ports to charge internalbatteries.

According to yet another set of embodiments, ring 100 can include one ormore accelerometers 324 that can be utilized for multiple functions.More particularly, accelerometer 324 can be utilized to measure shockloads. This measurement can be done independently of other sensors inring 100 and/or in combination with other sensors. Accelerometer canalso be utilized to help determine the positioning of ring 100 bydetecting the movement of the ring and can be utilized to help determinethe orientation of the ring. These functions can help with thedetermination of bail angle and also the overall lifting angle whencompared with the bail angle data. Yet further, accelerometer 324 can beutilized as a back up to help in the determination of the bail angle. Ascan be appreciated, the overall sensor reading can therefore be utilizedto calculate and/or determine many lifting parameter associated with theuse of the ring and these can be utilized to determine the condition ofthe ring for future lifts and/or service intervals.

With reference to FIGS. 19&20, shown is a strain collar 400 showing thatmultiple strain gauges could be used in each of the deformation zones.Further, strain gauges could be unidirectional gauges having a specificorientation. In these two figures, the gauges shown for these sets ofembodiments include arrows to show the direction or orientation of theunidirectional strain gauges. In greater detail, collar 400 can besimilar to any of the embodiments described above wherein thisdiscussion will be limited to strain gauge placement and orientation inthe interest of brevity. As with the collars described above, straincollar 400 includes a stem portion 430 and a flange portion 432. Stemportion 430 has an outer stem surface 434 that can be cylindrical orconical as is discussed above in greater detail. Further, in thisembodiment stem portion 430 includes three strain openings (440 & 441are shown) that operate as described above. As is discussed above ingreater detail, one or more strain opening could be used withoutdetracting from the invention of this application. Yet even further, iftightening forces are not to be calculated, collar 400 could even haveno stem strain openings. As is best shown in FIG. 20, and with referenceto strain opening 440, strain collar 400 can include one or more stemstrain gauges that are unidirectional and oriented parallel to a stemaxis 452.

Turning to flange 432, and FIG. 19, strain collar 400 can utilize one ormore strain gauges per deformation zone. In this set of embodiments,shown are twelve strain gauges that are positioned about axis 452. Ingreater detail, strain gauges 460-471 are shown wherein there aremultiple strain gauges for each zone 480-482. Collar 400 shows both athree deformation system wherein collar 400 has pads 490-492 on thelower flange surface as is described above and a four pad system, whichwill be described below. Further, collar 400 includes multiple sensorsfor each zone. While a three pad system is shown, the system couldutilize a wide range of pads including, but not limited to, three, six,nine or more sensors without detracting from the invention of thisapplication. With respect to a four pad system, collar 400, or othercollars of this application, could utilize four pads, such as pads 491,493-495 thereby creating a four zone system. Again, one or more straingauges could be utilized per zone in the four pad system wherein thesefigures are examples only for multiple gauges per zone. Further, more orless zones could be used to both determine applied loads and todetermine the bail or lifting angle of the ring without detracting fromthe invention of this application. As is also shown in these figures,the location and/or orientation of the strain gauges could be modifiedto adjust the results of the device. In a preferred set of embodiments,one or all of strain gauges 460-471 are oriented as is shown withrespect to gauge 462 wherein the unidirectional strain gauge is orientedradially outwardly from axis 452. However, as is shown with respect togauges 460, 461 and 471, different orientations could be utilizedwithout detracting from the invention of this application. Yet further,in this set of embodiments, if three pads are used and three gauges areused, gauges 462, 466 and 471 could be utilized in the orientation shownfor gauge 462 wherein this set of embodiments includes gauges positionedover the pads. As can be appreciated, the number of strain openings andcorresponding stem strain gauges can influence the number and locationof the one or more wire openings 497. As is discussed more above, thesewire openings can be used to allow wired communication between the stemstrain gauges and the electronics that are above the strain collar.

While not shown, other embodiment could include one or more load disk(not shown) that could be configured to work in combination with thehoist ring. As with other aspects of the invention, the load disk couldbe utilized with other electronics, software and hardware, to monitorapplied loads. These electronics can further include a range ofcomponents to perform a wide range of tasks as needed to monitor the useof the hoist ring, store the data acquired, analyze the data and/orreport the data. The disk and/or system can utilize a wide range ofother electronics to create the data used for the review and analysis ofthe service of the hoist ring. Again, the load disk, or otherembodiments of this application, could be configured to house allelectronics of the device including, but not limited to the sensors, thedata store, the CPU, the output/input electronics and/or otherelectronic and sensing devices. Further, the load disk, or other systemsof this application, could include a power supply to run them,output/input data transfer devices to communicate and/or store the datagenerated by the sensor(s) in the system.

Since the load data can include separate measurements of the hold download or force of the hoist ring bolt and the lifting load of the loadbeing lifted, the system can dynamically measure a wide range ofelements relating to the lift and the hoist ring.

The ring can include one or more warning lights that can come in manyforms. Further, cap or cover 126 can include a large dome shaped diskportion that can house light sources, such as LED lights, that light allor part of the dome portion of the disk in response to an event. Forexample, a green light(s) can be used to communicate a “Go” condition,yellow light(s) can communicate that a predetermined level is beingapproached and red light(s) can communicate a “Stop” condition wherein apredetermine measurement or load has been met or surpassed or not yetmet.

More particularly, the first and second zone sensors can be utilized toprovide one or more visual or audible indicators concerning the torqueof applied to the bolt, the lift in range, the equality of the load,shock loading, bail angle (applied load effect), report service neededand/or generate or report other data. This can be accomplished by usingdata from a desired selection of the sensors based on predeterminedconditions and communicating the data to lights located in/on the diskand/or located in the remaining structural components of the hoist ring,or even in remote systems. Yet further, this date could also becommunicated to systems external to the ring to alert personnel awayfrom the actual lift itself, such as supervisors, ring manufacturerand/or maintenance workers. For example, ring 100 can be incommunication with a portable device, such as an arm band, that includesthe same lighting features as the ring and other features. Yet further,the external systems can provide details, beyond warning lights, such asactual lifting loads and bail angles figures. This kind of communicationcan include any technology known in the art, or known in the future,including, but not limited to Near Field, hard wired cable systems, RF,GPS, WI-FI, Bluetooth, local area networks, the internet, cellulartechnology and/or satellite technology.

The light feature can be a lighted dome that can be utilized formultiple types of event indicators. Ring 100 can include separate lightindicators such as a first set of lights 340 for bolt torque or holdingforce and a second set of lights 342 for lifting loads. Each set caninclude multiple lights based on a wide range of parameters. Forexample, light set 340 can inform the end user when the bolt of thehoist ring is properly tightened based on pre-determined parameters. Ascan be appreciated, these parameters can be different for different sizerings and/or different style rings. More particularly, light set 340 caninclude a red light 350, a green light 352 and a yellow light 354. Forexample, yellow light 354 could provide a visual confirmation that atightening load has been detected, but that optimal torque or holdingload has not been achieved. As bolt is tightened, yellow light 354 wouldremain illuminated until a desired bolt torque range is achieved whereinyellow light 354 would be turned off and green light 352 would beilluminated. Then, if tightening is continued, red light 350 would beilluminated if the desired torque range is exceeded. Other combinationsof lights are also contemplated without detracting from the invention ofthis application that includes less than three lights. For example,green light 352 could be illuminated to provide a visual confirmationthat the load has been detected, but that optimal torque or holding loadhas not been achieved. Then, red light 350 could be illuminated untilthe desired range is achieved. Then, when the desired range is achieved,red light 350 would go out and green light 352 would be illuminated. Ifthe bolt is over tightened, red light 350 could be illuminated again.Or, in another possible alternative, green light 352 could flash whenthe initial load is detected and then stay on when the desired load isreached. As can be appreciated, any combination of lighting could beutilized to correspond with an event and/or load without detracting fromthe invention of this application. Even gauges could be utilized. Beloware some additional examples of lighting sequences.

Light set 342 can be utilized to provide visual confirmation relating tothe lifting load. Again, while a three light system is shown, threelights are not required. In this respect, light set 342 could include ared light 360, a green light 362 and a yellow light 364. Green light 362could be illuminated, for example, when a lifting load is detected. Or,when a tightening load is detected when bolt 190 is tightened onto theobject to be lifted and/or secured. Then, green light 362 would remainilluminated if the load is maintained below predetermined limits. Then,if any load, bail angle and/or load/bail angle combination exceeds thepredetermined limits; red light 360 would be illuminated. In addition,yellow light 364 could signal that the load limit is approaching.Further, if any event is encountered that would require the ring to beserviced; one or more lights could remain illuminated or flash after theload is removed. This occurrence also could be recorded in the datastore for future reference.

According to one set of embodiments, the disk and system includes thefollowing capabilities:

-   -   Evaluation for bolt tension or holding force    -   Evaluate for equality of load    -   Evaluate actual lift against known    -   Detection of Shocking    -   Detection of Bail Position or angle        -   Based on the evaluation of loads against known criteria a            series of lights will be illuminated, as a visual queue to            the end-user.            -   Bolt torqued properly . . . Red=Stop, Green=Yes            -   Equality of load . . . Red=Stop, Green=Go            -   Shock load . . . Red=Stop, Green=Go            -   Value of load . . . Red=Stop, Green=Yes            -   Applied load . . . Red=Stop, Green=Yes            -   Value, shock and applied will be tied together into one                set of lights.    -   The device can also include memory capability and/or        communication capability to store data, such as the number of        lifts and the parameters of each lift and then communicate them        to one or more service modules. Further, the memory can be        configured so that it is only accessible by authorized        personnel.    -   If a red or warning light is activated while in service, the        end-user is required to remove the device from service and send        to the hoist ring for service/evaluation. If the ring is not        sent for service/evaluation, this data can be stored too.

The hoist ring device can further include an on board custom developeddevice hardware that can interact with a communication and calibrationsoftware package.

-   -   The communication and calibration software package can allow a        new hoist ring to be initialized and/or communicate with an        existing hoist ring device to obtain the information, such as        the following stored information.    -   Serial Number    -   Date Purchased    -   “Born On”    -   Owner    -   Time and Date stamps    -   # of Lifts    -   Individual load snap shot    -   Load value of each lift    -   Shock value associated with a lift    -   Applied loads    -   Bolt Torques

This kind of data is valuable for determining service life and serviceintervals, failure analysis, and even future product improvements.

In yet other embodiments of the invention of this application, thesystem can include software and/or software applications for computingand/or mobile computing devices to allow an end-user in a desiredproximity of the lifting device and/or system to query specific datarelative to the following:

-   -   Time and Date Stamp    -   Bolt torque    -   Individual load snap shot    -   Equality of lift average    -   # of lifts    -   Value of load on each lift    -   Applied loads    -   Shock loads and values    -   Serialization information        -   Date built        -   Date purchased        -   Serial number        -   Lot #        -   Life cycle value

A warning light will notify the end user and/or authorized personnelthat the device is required to be removed from service and sent to anauthorized service provided for service and/or evaluation.

In yet further embodiments of the invention of this application, thesystem can include software and/or software applications to allowmultiple hoist rings to communicate with a single computing and/ormobile computing devices to allow an end-user in a desired proximity ofthe lifting device and/or system to query specific data as noted in thisapplication. For all applications and embodiments, these computerdevices can be linked to one or more hoist rings by any communicationmedium currently known or known in the future including, but not limitedsystems utilizing RF, GPS, WI-FI, Bluetooth, local area networks, theinternet, cellular technology and/or satellite technology. Yet further,the multiple hoist rings could communicate with multiple computingsystems.

In another set of embodiments, the hoist ring and system can work withspecialized hardware. In this respect, a hoist ring according to one ormore embodiments and/or aspects of the invention of this application canwork with additional hardware and software combinations that can monitorin real time the load being applied from multiple lifting devices on oneload. The dynamic measurements could be evaluated by the on-board CPU, aremote CPU. Yet further, the data could be aggregated and evaluated by acomputing device CPU and can be tied to other devices such as a craneE-Stop Switch. Therefore, if any over load conditions are detected, thecrane could be automatically stopped. As can be appreciated, while acrane is a good example, it is not the only example of the uses of theinvention of this application and/or the incorporation of the inventionof this application into other equipment and systems.

Yet further, the systems of this application is not limited to liftingwherein the systems could be utilized for other applications including,but not limited to, custom lifting systems, work holding devices,machine tool adaptive control technologies, and critical fasteners.

With reference to FIGS. 19-22, shown are several methods of using theinventions of this application.

While considerable emphasis has been placed on the preferred embodimentsof the invention illustrated and described herein, it will beappreciated that other embodiments, and equivalences thereof, can bemade and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodimentswithout departing from the principles of the invention. Furthermore, theembodiments described above can be combined to form yet otherembodiments of the invention of this application. Accordingly, it is tobe distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to beinterpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as alimitation. Further, while the invention is shown and describe as moreof a center-style device, it could also be used as a side-pull deviceand can be used in other center and/or side pull device.

It is claimed:
 1. An intelligent hoist ring configured to monitor and/ordetect an applied load, the hoist ring comprising: a ring body includinga U-bar, the U-bar being configured to receive an associated appliedload and direct the associated applied load to an associated object, thering body extending between a first body extent and a second body extentand having a central body opening extending between the first and secondbody extents, the first and second body extents defining a bodythickness; a strain collar having a stem portion and a flange portion,the stem portion extending from a first stem extent to a second stemextent, the stem portion extending along a stem axis and having aradially outwardly facing outer stem surface and a radially inwardlyfacing stem bolt opening defining a radially inwardly facing stemsurface, the radially inwardly facing stem bolt opening and the radiallyoutwardly facing stem surface defining a stem wall and the stem wallextending about a stem axis, the first and second stem extents defininga stem length, the strain collar having a flange portion extendingradially outwardly from the first stem extent, the flange portion havinga flange surface facing toward the second stem extent that is generallytransvers to the stem axis, the flange surface having at least onedeformation pad to produce a controlled elastic deformation of theflange in at least one flange deformation zone, the controlled elasticdeformation being in response to the associated applied load on theU-bar, the strain collar having a flange strain gauge in the at leastone flange deformation zone configured to detect the associated appliedload; the hoist ring further including a base washer having a firstwasher surface and a second washer surface, the base washer furtherincluding a washer bolt opening extending between the first and secondwasher surfaces, the base washer being configured to engage the secondstem extent; the hoist ring further including a hoist ring boltconfigured to extend through the stem and washer bolt openings andthreadingly engage the associated object; the central body opening beingshaped to receive the stem portion of the strain collar, the base washercapturing the ring body between the first washer surface and the flangesurface of the strain collar.
 2. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 1further a position sensor for determining the bail angle of the U-bar.3. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 2 wherein the at least onedeformation pad to produce the controlled elastic deformation of theflange in the flange deformation zone is at least three deformationpads, the at least one flange deformation zone being at least threedeformation zones, the flange strain gauge being at least three flangestrain gauges configured to detect the associated applied load and anangle of the applied load, the at least three at least three flangestrain gauges forming at least part of the position sensor.
 4. Theintelligent hoist ring of claim 3 further including an accelerometer,the accelerometer forming at least part of the position sensor.
 5. Theintelligent hoist ring of claim 2 further including an accelerometer,the accelerometer forming at least part of the position sensor.
 6. Theintelligent hoist ring of claim 2 further including a bail angle sensorforming at least part of the position sensor.
 7. The intelligent hoistring of claim 2 wherein the bail angle sensor includes a rotary anglesensor.
 8. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 2 further including awasher sensor to determine the position of the washer relative to theU-bar.
 9. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 2, wherein the radiallyoutwardly facing outer stem surface of the stem portion includes aconical surface portion, the conical surface portion extending inwardlytoward the first stem extent, the conical surface portion extendinginwardly at a stem angle and the stem angle being between 0 degrees and5 degrees.
 10. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 9, wherein the stemangle is between 1 degree and 3 degrees.
 11. The intelligent hoist ringof claim 1 wherein the at least one deformation pad is a plurality ofdeformation pads equally spaced about the stem axis.
 12. The intelligenthoist ring of claim 11 wherein the flange surface has an outercircumferential edge, that plurality of deformation pads being at leastnear the circumferential edge.
 13. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 1wherein the at least one deformation pad to produce the controlledelastic deformation of the flange in the flange deformation zoneincludes three deformation pads equally spaced about the stem axis, theat least one flange deformation zone including three deformation zonesequally spaced about the stem axis and between the three deformationpads, the flange strain gauge including three flange strain gauges inthe three deformation zones.
 14. The intelligent hoist ring of claim 1wherein the stem portion includes a load sensor arrangement having astrain opening and a stem strain gauge secured relative to the strainopening.